Fattoria di Olivi in Toscana

 **Overview** 
Immerse yourself in the heart of Tuscany with a hands-on cooking class set on a picturesque olive farm near Lucca. This experience blends traditional Tuscan cuisine, olive oil culture, and the charm of the Italian countryside, perfect for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking authenticity.

**Experience Highlights** 
1. **Farm Tour & Olive Oil Immersion** 
  - Stroll through ancient olive groves and learn about olive cultivation and cold-pressed oil production. 
  - Participate in an **olive oil tasting session**, discovering nuances of extra virgin varieties and their culinary uses. 

2. **Seasonal, Hands-On Cooking Class** 
  - Prepare a 3-4 course Tuscan meal using farm-fresh ingredients (e.g., garden vegetables, local cheeses, and herbs). 
  - **Signature Dishes**: Make *tordelli lucchese* (stuffed pasta), *ribollita* (hearty bread soup), herb-roasted pork, and *castagnaccio* (chestnut cake). 
  - Techniques: Fresh pasta, sauce preparation, and balancing flavors with olive oil. 

3. **Al Fresco Dining** 
  - Enjoy your creations on a terrace overlooking the Lucca hills, paired with regional wines like Chianti or Vernaccia. 

4. **Cultural Insights** 
  - Hear stories of the farming heritage, often family-run for generations. 
  - Learn the role of *cucina povera* (Tuscan "peasant cooking") in local traditions. 

**Key Features** 
- **Small Groups**: Intimate classes for personalized attention. 
- **Dietary Accommodations**: Options for vegetarians, gluten-free, etc. (request in advance). 
- **Seasonal Menus**: Autumn classes may include olive harvesting; summer features sun-ripened tomatoes and basil. 
- **Take-Home Memories**: Recipe booklet and optional olive oil purchases. 

**Practical Information** 
- **Duration**: Half-day (4-5 hours) or full-day (6-7 hours with extended menu/wine pairing). 
- **Location**: Rustic farmhouse 20 minutes from Lucca’s city center. 

- **Language**: Classes in English and Italian. 

**Booking & Pricing** 
- **Cost**: €90–€150/person (varies by duration/inclusions). 
- **How to Book**: Via the farm’s website. 
 

**Why Choose This Class?** 
- **Authenticity**: Learn from locals in a non-touristy, working olive farm. 
- **Scenic Setting**: Cook and dine surrounded by Tuscany’s rolling landscapes. 
- **Cultural Connection**: Deepen your appreciation for Tuscan ingredients and traditions. 

**Pro Tip** 
Pair your class with a Lucca market visit (ask about add-ons) to explore local produce before cooking. Autumn visitors might witness the olive harvest (October–November), a magical time to visit! 

Indulge in the flavors of Tuscany and carry home skills (and recipes) to recreate Italian magic in your kitchen!